ARKANSAS: THE LAND OF
OPPORTUNITY
BY CLAY LARROY
There
is nothing more exciting than traveling. Whether you are going for a road trip
to see something new in your own state, or heading off to somewhere for the
very first time to visit a city you have always dreamed of, there are some travel basics that you should know. Travel in the off seasons from November to April, to avoid crowds, save money and enjoy
temperate weather. In those months, many families with children cannot travel
due to school commitments, making many tourist attractions much less crowded.
This may also result in lower costs for airfare and hotels. When you are ready to plan a vacation contact me!
Little Rock
The capital and most populous city in Arkansas, Little Rock is named
after a small rock formation on the bank of the Arkansas River, which was used
as a landmark by early French colonists travelling along the river. With evidence
that Native Americans inhabited the area before European settlers landed here,
Little Rock has a fascinating history, including playing a major role in the
American Civil Rights Movement, and as the former home of Bill Clinton. With no
end of interesting stories to tell, Little Rock has plenty of great attractions
to explore.
Located in the center of where the Ozark Mountains, the Ouachita
Mountains, and the Mississippi Alluvial Plain come together, Little Rock is
nestled in picturesque natural surroundings, with forested rolling hills and
cliffs that rise above the Arkansas River, making the city feel more like a
holiday town than the metropolis and business center that it is. Featuring
stunning parks which boast golf courses, zoos, playgrounds, walking trails,
mountain climbs, baseball diamonds and picnic areas, you don't have to leave
the city to enjoy the fresh air. The city itself is pleasant and boasts some
worthwhile sightseeing attractions for visitors, but Little Rock is most celebrated
for its beautiful setting and the many outdoor gems nearby.
Getting around in Little Rock
Renting a car is the best option for those planning to travel beyond the
downtown area of Little Rock. Taxis are available in the city, but are not
plentiful so it is best to call in advance as they can be difficult to hail on
the street; the exception is the airport, where taxis are always available. The
Little Rock Metro Streetcar services most of the main tourist attractions and
entertainment venues downtown and is a cheap and convenient transport option
for travelers. There is also a bus system which services most of the city, but
it is less popular with visitors. Little Rock has a sizeable population of
cyclists and renting a bike is a fun option.
Sightseeing in Little Rock
Little Rock is a springboard to the many natural wonders of the region,
but the city also boasts some interesting attractions. One of Little Rock's
prime tourist sites hearkens back to the turbulent Civil Rights Movement:
Little Rock Central High School, now a National Historic Site with a memorial
and visitor's center, attracts many visitors keen to commemorate the brave
Little Rock Nine. For lovers of politics, The Clinton Presidential Center is fascinating,
and the Arkansas Governor's Mansion beckons history buffs. Visit the oldest
surviving Capitol building west of the Mississippi; shop for unique antiques
and trinkets around town; take a ride on a riverboat down the Arkansas River;
enjoy a drive through the picturesque historic Quapaw Quarter; view the Villa
Marre, the home featured in the 1990s sitcom, Designing Women;or relish
teeing off on a championship golf course.
Nature lovers can hook a fish from a world-class trout stream, walk in
the scenic Ouachita Mountains where the Hot Springs National Park awaits, or
enjoy breathtaking views, pristine lakes, rivers and vast underground caverns
in the Ozark Mountains and River Valley. Especially worthwhile for nature
lovers, the city of Little Rock is worth a visit for all who visit Arkansas.
REFERENCE
SITES:
Ashley McBryde
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